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Sedona, Arizona

2017 September Guided Hikes and Events at Red Rock State Park

The summer months are coming to an end and fall is moving into the majestic red rocks of Sedona, AZ. Red Rock State Park is ready to welcome the change of season with some great hikes and events including a Star Party on September 16th! On the 17th internationally recognized Sedona bamboo flute player Jesse Kalu will be filling the park with a heartfelt presentation that includes a unique mixture of bamboo flutes, poetry, story and nature voices. Also taking place this month at Red Rock State Park: Guided Moonlight Hike, Southwest Monarch Study, Daily Nature Walks and Guided Bird Walks every Wednesday and Saturday morning!

Red Rock State Park – Guided Bird WalkEvery Wednesday and Saturday (8:00 am)
Included with park entrance feesBird enthusiasts can join a naturalist for a “Guided Bird Walk”. Beginning as well as
advanced birders are welcome. Rangers recommend that visitors bring their own binoculars. A limited number are available for loan from the Park. No matter the time of day, visitors can check out the many birds who make Red Rock State Park their home. The bird-feeding area behind the visitor center, on the Hummingbird Patio, is an excellent spot to start your tour or to take pictures.

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Daily Nature WalkEvery Day at 10:00 am in September
Included with park entrance feesEvery morning a volunteer naturalist leads a guided nature walk informing visitors about the different life zones of Red Rock State Park. The subjects discussed on this walk include geology, wildlife, history, archeology, and plant life. The naturalists welcome questions during the walk, enhancing the learning experience.

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Guided Sedona Moonlight HikeSeptember 5th, 2017 (5:30 pm)$5.00 reservation fee and regular park entry feesMoonlight Hikes are among the most popular interpretive hikes at Red Rock State Park. Led by a knowledgeable naturalist, hikers get the rare opportunity to enjoy the sunset and moon rise from a park overlook and return by the light of the moon. The hike lasts two to 2 1/2 hours and covers a distance of approximately two miles. Please arrive at least 30 minutes before the starting time to insure participation. Registration for this hike is required, call 928.282.6907 to reserve your spot. Registration closes the day before the hike. No new reservations will be accepted on the day of the hike.

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Star Party at Red Rock State ParkSeptember 16th, 2017 (7:00 pm)Cost – $5 plus park entrance feeCome join the Astronomers of Verde Valley as they present the celestial happenings of the late April sky. This program is limited to 75 participants. A $5 per person reservation fee is required for this program, in addition to the park’s regular entry fees on the day of the program. Registration for this event begins on August 17th, 2017. Call 928.282.6907 to reserve your spots. Light refreshments (drinks,snacks) will be provided.

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Red Rock State Park – Jesse KaluInternationally Recognized Sedona Bamboo Flute PlayerSeptember 17th, 2017 (2:00 pm)Red Rock State park is proud to present Jesse Kalu! This heartfelt presentation includes a unique mixture of bamboo flutes, poetry, story and nature voices. Emanating through his handcrafted flutes are the wildlife calls of doves, quails, loons, hawks owl seagulls, dolphins, whales coyotes, wolf, elk, and more. He utilizes a wide variety of bamboo flutes sweeping form the soprano to bass ranges, all made by his own hand. Many praise his ability to imbue his creations with the deep connection spirit of the natural world. A $5 non-refundable program fee is required per person prior to the performance in order to reserve your seats. The parks standard park entry fee is also required on the day of the program.

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Red Rock State Park – Southwest Monarch StudySeptember 24th, 2017 (8:30 am – 11:00 am)This program is included with park entrance feesNestled in the red rock country of Sedona, Oak Creek provides a flyway for migrating monarchs hurrying to their overwintering grounds each September. Many will stop to consume nectar on nearby plants such as Sunflowers and Golden Crownbeard. Join Gail Morris, coordinator of the southwest Monarch Study, for a morning of butterfly netting and tagging. This program is an outdoor event so please be ready to be outdoors. Participants should wear sturdy close-toe shoes that can get wet (NO sandals), long pants and long sleeve shirt, hat and sunscreen. Bring sufficient water for hydration. Space is limited to 15 participants, so call to reserve your spots, 928.282.6907.

For more information on any of the Sedona events or hikes listed above please visit Red Rock State Park

National Park Service’s Birthday

Free Entrance Day August 25th, 2017

The National Park Service turns 101 on August 25, 2017, and everyone can take part in the celebration! National Parks are offering an Entrance Free Day on Friday, August 25th! If you are in Sedona on the 25th we would highly recommend visiting Montezuma Well and the Montezuma Castle National Monument in Camp Verde and definitely the Tuzigoot National Monument in Clardale, AZ. It would also be the perfect time to take a day trip up to the Grand Canyon National Park and don’t forget to include some stops at the National Monuments in Flagstaff along the way.

During 10 days of the year, all National Park Service sites that charge an entrance fee will offer free admission to everyone. For more information about free entrance days in the national parks, visit www.nps.gov/findapark/feefreeparks.htm.

Day Trip to National Monuments in Flagstaff, AZ

Day Trip Note: Consider taking the Scenic Loop Drive: Sunset Crater Volcano is located along a 34 mile scenic loop road that takes you from open meadows and the beautiful Ponderosa pine forests surrounding Sunset Crater, through Juniper grasslands and view of the Painted Desert, to the open red rock landscape of the Wupatki Basin and Wupatki National Monument. Drive time along the Loop Road is about 1 hour

Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument
Free Entrance August 25th, 2017Seasonal Hours – visit website
Sunset Crater Volcano was born in a series of eruptions sometime between 1040 and 1100. Powerful explosions profoundly affected the lives of local people and forever changed the landscape and ecology of the area. Lava flows and cinders still look as fresh and rugged as the day they were formed. But among the dramatic geologic features, you’ll find trees, wildflowers, and signs of wildlife – life returns. People had been living here for several hundred years, at least, before the volcano erupted. Although we don’t know what they called themselves, archaeologists consider them representatives of the Sinagua culture. They were farmers, living in scattered groups adjacent to their corn fields. Their homes were pithouses, dug partially into the ground. 900 years later, Sunset Crater is still the youngest volcano on the Colorado Plateau. The volcano’s red rim and the dark lava flows seem to have cooled and hardened to a jagged surface only yesterday. As plants return, so do the animals that use them for food and shelter. And so do human visitors, intrigued by this opportunity to see nature’s response to a volcanic eruption. Make sure to walk the Lava Flow Trail while you are there! For directions to this monument click here. For more information visit Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument.

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Walnut Canyon National Monument
Free Entrance August 25th, 2017Seasonal Hours – visit website
Experience Walnut Canyon National Monument, once home to a vital pueblo community over 700 years ago that built their homes in shallow alcoves along the ledges of the canyon. Carved by Walnut Creek over a period of 6 million years the canyon is twenty miles long, 400 feet deep and 1/4 a mile wide. The canyon offers two trails, the Rim Trail that takes you on an easy beautiful stroll above the rim of the canyon and the Island Trail that is more strenuous and descends 185 vertical feet into the canyon! You will enjoy the scenic beauty the Rim Trail provided, but I have to tell you, if you can handle it, the Island Trail is the way to go! The Trail starts with a ramp type walkway down, then stairs taking you down further into the canyon where you will see cliff dwelling rooms along the trail with more visible across the canyon. The trail is paved making it a little easier to walk but I suggest if you have back problems, or a fear of heights, stick to the rim trail…Read More

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Wupatki National Monument
Free Entrance August 25th, 2017Open Daily (9:00 AM – 5:00 PM)
From hunter-gatherers to farmers, herders, ranchers, and caretakers, many people have called Wupatki home. Less than 800 years ago, Wupatki Pueblo was the largest pueblo around. It flourished for a time as a meeting place of different cultures. Yet this was one of the warmest and driest places on the Colorado Plateau, offering little obvious food, water, or comfort. The builders of Wupatki and nearby pueblos have moved on, but their legacy remains. It will take about 2 hours to see five prehistoric pueblos. If you have less time, allow at least 30 minutes to visit the largest Wupatki Pueblo located behind the Visitor Center. For more information visit the Wupatki National Monument.

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All of us here at the Best Western PLUS Inn of Sedona are looking forward to the Fall season! Along with all the great events and festivals, the weather is close to picture perfect, the town is a buzz with activity, and our guests are out hiking and biking the red rocks!

Fall, in our opinion is also one of the best times to enjoy Out of Africa Park, the Verde Canyon Railroad and tours with Pink Jeep. With that in mind we wanted to highlight our most popular Fall Sedona Vacation Packages, click here to save money at the Inn of Sedona!

2017 Sedona Bike & Brew Festival

August 26th, 2017

Have you heard? The 4th Annual Sedona Bike & Brew Festival hosted by the Sedona Golf Resort will be taking place August 26th! This event combines riders from all over the country as well as locals for, quite possibly, one of the most unique races in the state! The 6 mile track will wind through fairways, off tee boxes, across sand traps, and incorporate a lot of out-of-bounds features all while climbing and descending 300 vertical feet. While that sounds daunting, there is also plenty of fun to be had. Craft breweries such as Four Peaks, Oak Creek Brewing, Oskar Blues, and Hubert’s Lemonade will be on hand pouring delicious libations. If you were used to getting chased off a golf course as a kid, now is your opportunity to ride the plush fairways without fear. Spectators are welcome to watch at no cost as well. Come one come all!

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2017 “Summer in Sedona” Hotel Special

Stay at the Best Western Plus Inn of Sedona between June 5th and August 27th and save $22 to $43 per night. (July 1st through July 4th not included. Savings vary by room type and date of stay. All room types included, based on availability. Not combinable with other offers or discounts.)

Must make reservations by phone directly with the hotel – 928.282.3072

Use Promo code “Summer in Sedona” to receive your special rate!

Make sure to enjoy all the benefits of staying at our Sedona hotel! We offer our Complimentary “About Town” Shuttle and a free full hot breakfast to get your day started off on the right foot!

Fiesta del Tlaquepaque Hotel Special

It is almost time for one of our favorite events at Tlaquepaque Arts and Crafts Village! That’s right the 45th annual “Fiesta del Tlaquepaque“, a celebration of Mexican Independence Day, will be taking place on Saturday, September 9th! The village will be dressed in a festive wash of color while music and dancing bring the village alive with the spirit of old Mexico! The lively mariachis, the heart pounding beats of Flamenco dancers, and mouthwatering tastes of Mexico will fill the day with celebration, culture and fun! This is one event you do not want to miss!

If you wish to stay with us at the Best Western Plus Inn of Sedona during this event take advantage of the special lodging rates we’re offering for the weekend of the Fiesta. (See lodging special below) If you are a guest of the Best Western Plus Inn of Sedona don’t worry about finding a parking place, or enjoying an adult beverage during the festival, we will do the driving! Our Complimentary “About Town” Shuttle will drop you off and pick you up from this event!

Live Entertainment in Sedona, Arizona

Put a little magic in your visit to Sedona, AZ this weekend! That’s right, the Award-winning magician and illusionist Eric Giliam will be live at the Mary D. Fisher Theatre this Saturday, August the 12th at 7:30 pm! General Admission Ticktets are only $20 dollars and can be purchased online at The Sedona International Film Festival. If you decide to come up on the spur of the moment for this event save money on your lodging with our “Summer in Sedona” Hotel Special.

More About Magician Eric Gillam

Award-winning magician and illusionist Eric Giliam brings his popular, high-energy, all-ages show to Sedona! The former World Teen Magic Champion has won many awards and prizes since he started performing at age twelve, among them, the award for the most original and innovative stage act presented to him by Siegfried and Roy in Las Vegas.

Giliam’s sleight of hand, illusions, and stage presentation have taken him regularly overseas, performing on prime time TV shows in London, Rome, and most recently an exclusive show in Spain. He continues entertaining in the U.S., performing several hundred public and private stage shows every year.

The high energy show of magic, laughter, fascination and crowd participation has entertained and amazed audiences of all ages. Several of the magic routines performed are not seen in any other show. For more information or to purchase tickets to this Sedona event please visit the Sedona International Film Festival.

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The Best Western Plus Inn of Sedona is a Pet Friendly Hotel

Pets are welcome guests at Best Western Plus Inn of Sedona! We have a number of rooms reserved for pets in every room type from our most economical to a King Room with a fireplace. There is a one-time only pet-fee of $20 + tax per pet, no matter how long your stay. This fee is non-refundable and includes complimentary items available at the front desk, including dog biscuits and pet waste bags (please clean up after your pet on walks or hiking trails)!

For the comfort and safety of all our guests as well as your beloved pet, we kindly request all owners to review the following pet guidelines prior to booking, and please contact us if you have any questions or concerns about our pet policy.

Sedona, Arizona

Save Money with our Fall Festival Hotel Specials

Fall is one of the most popular times to visit the red rocks of Sedona, AZ. The great weather, fall hikes and rocking festivals bring people to the red rocks in droves. We want everyone to be able to experience the fun and festivities that this time of year brings to the majestic red rocks, and save some money too! With that in mind we have created three hotel specials that will save you money on your lodging at the Best Western Plus Inn of Sedona during the most popular festivals: Fiesta del Tlaquepaque, Sedona Winefest, and the Sedona Plein Air Festival. As an added bonus if you are intending to attend Fiesta del Tlaquepaque, or Sedona Winefest and are a guest of our hotel our Complimentary “About Town” shuttle will take you to and from the festivities freeing you to enjoy some of the adult beverages while leaving the driving to us! So kick back, relax and enjoy all that Sedona has to offer this fall!

45th Annual Fiesta del TlaquepaqueSeptember 9th, 2017Free Event
The charming plazas, patios, and streets of Tlaquepaque will be dressed in a festive wash of color, music, and dancing in the spirit of old Mexico. The lively mariachis, the heart-pounding rhythms and beats of Flamenco dancers, and the mouth-watering tastes of Mexico will fill the day. Continuing a long tradition of fabulous food, music, dance and entertainment for young and old, this year’s Fiesta promises to be extraordinary. Arts and crafts exhibits will abound offering a glimpse into the traditional and present artistry of Mexico. For more information please visit Tlaquepaque Arts and Craft Village.

Save

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Special Lodging Rates During the Sedona Winefest
Valid September 22nd – 25th, 2017

Stay at the Best Western Plus Inn of Sedona during the 9th Annual Sedona Winefest and receive a special lodging rate at our Sedona hotel. Along with saving up to $40 a night on your stay you will also be able to enjoy the luxury and convenience of being dropped off and picked up from the event in our Complimentary “About Town” Shuttle! So kick back, tantalize your taste buds with some amazing Arizona wines and leave the driving to us! Just call us directly at 928.282.3072 and let us know you will be attending the Winefest to receive your special rate. It’s that simple! You will need to purchase your Sedona Winefest tickets separately at the Sedona Winefest website, or if you prefer, tickets are available at the event entrance.

8th Annual Sedona WinefestSeptember 23rd – 24th, 2017 (11:00 am – 5:00 pm)Purchase Tickets here
Take one part Arizona wineries, add tasty Sedona cuisine, marvelous music, vendors galore, mini seminars on all things wine, toss in exciting raffle prizes, an Art Exhibit, and some fantastic views, and what do you get? Sedona Winefest 2017! Treat your palate to tasty food while sampling the many Arizona wines from the Northern and Southern Arizona. The Sedona Winefest will be held at the Sedona “Historic” Posse Grounds Park in West Sedona. Enjoy the beautiful vistas while you sip wine and savor the great food and music in our shaded courtyard seating areas. A wide variety of vendors will offer goods and services. Enjoy relaxing and tasteful music playing throughout the event. General admission tickets are available online at at the early online price of $35 and $40 at the door for $30.00. General admission includes an etched commemorative glass and eight tasting tickets. Additional wine tasting tickets are also available.For more information or to purchase tickets please visit the Sedona Winefest.

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Special Lodging Rates During the Sedona Plein Air FestivalValid October 14th – 21st, 2017

Stay with us at the Best Western Plus Inn of Sedona during the 2017 Sedona Plein Air Festival and save up to $40 dollars a night! Enjoy great views from the award winning terraced decks, free hot breakfast every morning and use of our Complimentary “About Town” shuttle available to all of our guest. And you can also pick your room type! This week long festival takes place in October. All you have to do to take advantage of this special is call our hotel directly at 928.282.3072 and ask for the “Plein Air Festival Rate” to make your reservations. It’s that easy!

13th Annual Sedona Plein Air FestivalOctober 14th – 21st, 2017
Our community’s iconic creative event, Sedona Plein Air Festival is a week-long celebration of extraordinary landscapes, world-renowned artists, unique workshops, and wonderful free events!Sedona Arts Center invites you along to get creative and experience over two dozen master painters in action—making their art on location in beautiful Sedona, Arizona. Celebrate creativity with us and enjoy receptions, exhibitions, lectures, and opportunities to collect your next masterpiece at Sedona Plein Air Festival!For more information visit Sedona Plein Air Festival.

This Fall in Sedona, AZ

September – October, 2017

Fall is fast approaching and now is the time to start planning your Autumn vacation to the red rocks of Sedona, AZ. Along with clear blue skies, crisp cool air and the color changes in Oak Creek Canyon there are some great events and festivals to enjoy. Fiesta De Tlaquepaque, the Sedona Winefest, and the Sedona Plein Air Festival are just a few. Below you will find our top picks for events and festivals this fall.

Don’t delay, make your hotel reservations soon. Our hotel is filling up fast for September through November, as is the rest of town. Popular tours like Pink Jeep, and the “Fall Colors Tour” on the Verde Canyon Railroad need to be made in advance as well. If you are going to be staying with us at the Best Western Plus Inn of Sedona this fall we urge you to go ahead and take advantage of our complimentary Concierge Service. Amanda and Hope can help you plan tours, assist you with your dining reservations, suggest hikes and events, and offer you ideas for day trips to the surrounding areas. All you have to do is call them at 928.282.3072 or email them at Concierge@InnofSedona.com before your stay. Or if you’re more of a ‘spur of the moment’ planner you can visit them in the Lobby once you arrive! And by all means, bring your pooch with you, fall is a great time to go hiking with your dog and we LOVE our four legged guests!

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15th Annual Thunder Valley Rally – Cottonwood, AZSeptember 15th – 16th, 2017Visit Bootleg Capital of Arizona, historic Cottonwood, AZ for the 16th annual Thunder Valley Rally! Thunder Valley Rally will provide you with breathtaking rides through the Verde Valley, Bootlegging Poker Run (registration fee), Bike Show and an awesome line up of live concerts at the The Freedom Bird Entertainment Park & Campground! Beand Lineup:Santans, Whiskey Rodeo, Kenny Wayne Shepherd Band, The Mods, Mr. Skynyrd, Mogollon, and the Blue Oyster Cult! For more information or to register for the poker run please visit the Thunder Valley Rally website.

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Sedona Airport DaySeptember 16th, 2017 (9:00 am – 3:00 pm)Free EventSedona Airport would like to invite everyone to enjoy this free community event, and share in Sedona’s love for aviation! Free parking and free admission! The event will feature tons of exhibits including cool classic automobiles, trucks, and aircraft of all vintages; including former military, antique, home-built, and brand new aircraft. This year Sedona Airport is excited to announce that EAA chapter 856 from Flagstaff will be bringing pilots and aircraft in to give free rides and introduce young people to aviation! EAA Young Eagles Program allows kids 8-17 years old to sign up to take a ride with a local pilot! This is also a fly-in for pilots in the southwest. Sedona Airport invites all to fly in and meet and greet the public and fellow pilots. For more information please visit www.sedonaairport.org

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8th Annual Sedona WinefestSeptember 23rd – 24th, 2017Purchase TicketsTake one part Arizona wineries, add tasty Sedona cuisine, marvelous music, vendors galore, mini seminars on all things wine, toss in exciting raffle prizes, an Art Exhibit, and some fantastic views, and what do you get? Sedona Winefest 2017! Treat your palate to tasty food while sampling the many Arizona wines from the Northern and Southern Arizona. The Sedona Winefest will be held at the Sedona “Historic” Posse Grounds Park in West Sedona. Enjoy the beautiful vistas while you sip wine and savor the great food and music in our shaded courtyard seating areas. A wide variety of vendors will offer goods and services. Enjoy relaxing and tasteful music playing throughout the event. General admission tickets are available online at at the early online price of $35 and $40 at the door for $30.00. General admission includes an etched commemorative glass and eight tasting tickets. Additional wine tasting tickets are also available. For more information please visit the Sedona Winefest.Sedona Event Hotel Special

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Verde River Day – Cottonwood, AZSeptember 30th, 2017 (9:00 am – 3:00 pm)
Park Entrance Fees WaivedDead Horse Ranch State Park, located in Cottonwood, Arizona, will celebrate its 29th Annual Verde River Day!Verde River Day promotes preservation and care of the environment by showcasing informative exhibits on the Verde’s unique riparian habitat. Some of the day’s events include a climbing wall, organized canoe and kayak rides, sand castle building, and nature-based exhibits. Guests of all ages are welcome to fish the lagoon, which will be freshly stocked with catfish. Poles, bait and tackle are provided for all ages. No fishing license is needed. There will be a wide range of entertainment throughout the day. For more information please visit www.verderiverday.com

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Sedona Arts FestivalOctober 7th – 8th, 2017Saturday 9:00 am – 5:00 pm, Sunday 10:00 am – 4:00 pmAt the gate: $12, Online in advance: $10
Children 12 and under are FREE125 artists from across the US will be showcasing their exquisite work against Sedona’s stunning red rock backdrop. Enjoy a wide variety of artistic creations in Ceramics, Mixed Media, Fiber Art, Glass, Photography, Drawing, Sculpture. Jewelry, Wood, Metal, and Painting! This event will be taking place at Sedona Red Rock High School located at 995 Upper Red Rock Loop Road in West Sedona. If you are a guest of the Best Western Plus Inn of Sedona we will be happy to drop you off and pick you up from this event in our Complimentary “About Town” Sedona Shuttle. For more information on this Sedona event please visit the Sedona Arts Festival.

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Ales on Rails at the Verde Canyon RailroadEvery Thursday – Sunday in OctoberStandard train fares applyThere are parties and shindigs and then there is Oktoberfest! Of course Verde Canyon Railroad never misses out on a good time so they roll out their popular Ales on Rails every Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday in October. The party starts at 11:00 am on the depot patio with a mouthwatering luncheon ($11) of German sausages, sauerkraut, potato salad, pretzels and strudel, all served to the rhythmic tunes of a polka serenade. A $10 logo beer glass comes with five beer tastings. The 1:00 p.m. train whistle signals the continuation of the party as it moves onto the rails with specialty beers served on board, including Verde Canyon Railroad’s own private-labeled brews, crafted in Sedona by the renowned Oak Creek Brewery. For more information or to reserve you spot on the train please visit the Verde Canyon Railroad.

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12th Annual Sedona Plein Air FestivalOctober 14th – 21st, 2017
Our community’s iconic creative event, Sedona Plein Air Festival is a week-long celebration of extraordinary landscapes, world-renowned artists, unique workshops, and wonderful free events! Sedona Arts Center invites you along to get creative and experience over two dozen master painters in action making their art on location in beautiful Sedona, Arizona. Celebrate creativity and enjoy receptions, exhibitions, lectures, and opportunities to collect your next masterpiece at Sedona Plein Air Festival! The spectacular red rock scenery and temperate climate of Sedona create the perfect location for plein air painting. For more information on this Sedona event please visit www.sedonapleinairfestival.org. Save money on your lodging at the Best Western Plus Inn of Sedona during this event with our Sedona Event Hotel Special!

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Fall Festival at Slide Rock State ParkOctober 21st, 2017 (9:00 am – 3:30 pm)
Come celebrate the fall in beautiful Oak Creek Canyon at the Slide Rock State Park Fall Festival. This event is presented by Arizona State Parks, the Friends of Slide Rock and volunteers. Bring a picnic and enjoy the day with exhibits and demonstrations, wild plants of Slide Rock State Park, kid’s activities at the Junior Ranger Station, tractors and flywheelers. For more information please visit Slide Rock State Park.

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Annual Celebraciones de la Gente :: A Lively Celebration of the Day of the DeadOctober 1st – 22nd, 2017 (9:00 am – 5:00 pm)Celebrate Mexican cultural traditions at the 14th Annual Celebraciones de la Gente, a lively Day of the Dead festival. Rooted in community, this weekend-long event is presented in partnership with Flagstaff’s Nuestras Raices. Don’t miss fine art and unique crafts, music and dancing, colorful and elaborate ofrendas (altars), insightful heritage programs and Day of the Dead inspired crafts for the kids. The Museum of Northern Arizona is located at 3101 North Fort Valley Road in Flagstaff, Arizona. Museum Admission:$12 Adult (18+), $8 Youth (10-17),Student (with ID) & American Indian (with tribal affiliation). Free (Children under 10). To learn more about the Heritage Program Festival or to learn more about the museum please visit the Museum of Northern Arizona.

Museum of Northern Arizona

68th Annual Navajo Festival of Arts & Culture

August 5th – 6th, 2017

Spend your weekend in the cool pines and immerse yourself in the artistry and cultural traditions of more than 80 award-winning Navajo artists at the 68th Annual Navajo Festival of Arts and Culture taking place at the Museum of Northern Arizona. Buy traditional and contemporary art and enjoy artist demonstrations, authentic food, insightful heritage programs, and a variety of Navajo performances.

The museum is located in Flagstaff only 48 minutes from Sedona, AZ! If you would like to stay at the Best Western Plus Inn of Sedona during this event, take advantage of our “Summer in Sedona” lodging special and make your reservations soon. Rooms are filling up fast!

11:30 am Sweethearts of Navajo
The Sweethearts of Navajoland have been creating music inspired by their love of Navajo culture for over 33 years.

1:00 pm Jones Benally Family
Guided by world-champion hoop dancer and Arizona Living Legend Jones Benally, this family has entertained audiences worldwide with a repertoire of over two dozen Navajo and Inter-Tribal dances.

2:30 pm Blackkiss
Blackkiss was founded by Pete Sands, who grew up listening to Johnny Cash, Waylon Jennings, and Willie Nelson while also learning the music of his culture.

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2017 “Summer in Sedona” Hotel Special

Stay between June 5th and August 27th and save $22 to $43 per night. (July 1st through July 4th not included. Savings vary by room type and date of stay. All room types included, based on availability. Not combinable with other offers or discounts.)

Must make reservations by phone directly with the hotel – 928.282.3072

Use Promo code “Summer in Sedona” to receive your special rate!

Make sure to enjoy all the benefits of staying at our Sedona hotel! We offer our Complimentary “About Town” Shuttle and a free full hot breakfast to get your day started off on the right foot!

Red Rock State Park: Guide Moonlight Hike

August 7th, 2017 at 6:00 pm

If you are going to be visiting Sedona, Arizona on Monday, August 7th, don’t miss your chance to hike the red rocks during the full moon! That’s right, Red Rock State Park in Sedona, AZ is ready to take you out to enjoy the nighttime splendor of the red rocks with a Guided Moonlight Hike!

Sedona during the day is beautiful, Sedona by moonlight is Awesome!

This 2 1/2 hour naturalist-led interpretive moonlight hike is by far the most popular hike offered by Red Rock State Park ( make your reservations for this hike as soon as possible). Enjoy the cooler temperatures of evening as you enjoy the sunset and moon rise from an overlook and return by the light of the moon. You will also have the chance to learn a great deal about Sedona and its surrounding areas. Information about Verde Valley and park history, as well as archeology, geology, botany, and the riparian wildlife area is offered.

When we tell you that this is one of the most popular guided Sedona hikes, we are not kidding. Space is limited and reservations prior to this event are required; call (928) 282- 6907 to reserve your space as soon as possible. A $5.00 reservation fee per person is required as well as an entry fees upon arrival: 7.00 per adult (14 and up) $4.00 per youth (7-13). *Registration closes the day before the hike. No new reservations will be accepted on the day of the hike.

Rangers ask hikers to please arrive approximately 30 minutes before the starting time to insure participation. Program fees are nonrefundable unless the park must cancel the hike after your arrival. Wear suitable clothing and shoes (prepare for cool nights) and bring water, a flashlight and insect spray. If you would like to learn more about Red Rock State Park and other hikes available please visit Red Rock State Park.

45th Annual Fiesta del TlaquepaqueSeptember 9th, 2017Free Event
The charming plazas, patios, and streets of Tlaquepaque will be dressed in a festive wash of color, music, and dancing in the spirit of old Mexico. The lively mariachis, the heart-pounding rhythms and beats of Flamenco dancers, and the mouth-watering tastes of Mexico will fill the day. Continuing a long tradition of fabulous food, music, dance and entertainment for young and old, this year’s Fiesta promises to be extraordinary. Arts and crafts exhibits will abound offering a glimpse into the traditional and present artistry of Mexico. For more information please visit Tlaquepaque Arts and Craft Village.

Best Western Plus Inn of Sedona

Having fun when it’s raining in Sedona, AZ

Monsoon season is upon us in the beautiful red rocks of Sedona, AZ. While it is true Sedona can see some heavy rains during monsoon season, they very seldom last the whole day. This is the dessert, so we are happy to see the rain, but often our guests and visitors are not. Who could blame them? I would rather be out hiking in the red rocks too! The rains during monsoon season normally hit us in the afternoon or early evening, which is another reason we suggest hiking adventures in the early morning… but then what? The number #1 question we get during this season is; ‘what is there to do when it rains?’

Cinema at the Mary D, Fisher Theatre

Get out of the rain and enjoy a flick at the Mary D. Fisher Theatre! Home of the Sedona International Film Festival the theatre features independent films, award winning documentaries, live entertainment including Zenprov Comedy and more, all year long! This state-of-the-art theatre is locate at 2030 West Highway 89A. To see what’s playing and who’s performing while you are in town visit the Sedona International Film Festival online. If you are a guest of the Inn of Sedona, let us do the driving. We will be happy to drop you off and pick you up when you are ready to return to the hotel.

How about kicking back and enjoying some live entertainment

Sound Bites GrillSound Bites Grill offers top quality live entertainment in Sedona. It’s a unique dining and supper club experience with amazing red rock views makes this place a local favorite for dining, music, dancing and fun! Sound bites is located at The Shops at Piñon Pointe located at 101 North State Route 89A. To see the entertainment line up please visit Sound Bites Grill.

Olde Sedona Bar and Grill
Olde Sedona Bar & Grill is the place to be for late night fun featuring live bands, DJs and Karaoke! There’s always something good going on in this lively restaurant, sports bar, and entertainment venue. Eat, drink and have fun where the locals’ hang out! Make sure to visit Olde Sedona Bar and Grill on Facebook to see what’s happening when your in town.

Vino di Sedona
Vino di Sedona offers a wide variety of fun events such as wine tastings, live music, dance nights and much more! This lively wine bar is located at 2575 West State Rout 89A. To see what’s happening when your in town visit Vino di Sedona on Facebook.

Bella Vita Ristorante
High end Italian food at a truly modest price. Bella Vita’s aesthetically classic environment provides the perfect rendezvous for a romantic date or a family outing. There is Live music on the patio every Thursday – Saturday from 6:30 pm – 9:30 pm featuring talented artist such as: Adara Blake, Anthony Mazzella, and Diversity. To see their entertainment line-up please visit www.bellavitasedona.com

Like we have said before, it’s very seldom that the rain lasts more than a couple of hours. Sometimes it only hangs around for about 30 minutes. We highly suggest grabbing your camera and heading out after the rain. The red rocks are even more majestic after the washing. You might even catch a rainbow or two arching over the formations. I will have to admit, when the rain is gentle and there is no lightning in the sky you can often find me on the Red Rock Scenic Byway (SR 179) taking shots of the storm clouds over the red rocks.